Multi-Layer Waterproofing Membrane for Concrete Durability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laminate sheets used for waterproofing concrete substrates offer limited waterproofing capabilities, lack durability, and are cumbersome to install, especially in extreme weather conditions and under heavy physical wear.

Innovation Solution

A waterproofing membrane system comprising multiple layers, including a thermoplastic elastomeric membrane, a polypropylene carrier sheet, a C5 petroleum resin adhesive layer, and a protective quartz sand coating, designed to provide enhanced durability and water resistance, with specifications such as high tensile strength, puncture resistance, and resistance to extreme temperatures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional laminate sheets are applied to concrete substrates, then waterproofing coverage is provided, but the waterproofing capability is limited and durability is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproofing capabilityVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-layer composite structure consisting of: (1) a polymer-modified bitumen base layer providing waterproofing; (2) a reinforcement layer with woven or non-woven fabric for structural strength; (3) a polymer-modified bitumen adhesive layer for bonding; and (4) a protective granule layer for durability. This composite construction integrates the advantages of different materials to simultaneously achieve reliable waterproofing and enhanced durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges multiple functional layers into a single integrated membrane system, combining waterproofing, reinforcement, adhesion, and protection functions in one product. This eliminates the need for separate application of multiple materials and ensures consistent performance across all layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional laminate sheets are used for waterproofing, then basic water barrier function is achieved, but the sheets are cumbersome to install and lack adaptability to extreme conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to extreme weatherVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of the membrane system to enhance adaptability. The polymer-modified bitumen provides temperature resistance from -20°C to +80°C, the reinforcement layer offers elongation of 5-15% to accommodate substrate movement, and the protective granules provide UV resistance. These parameter optimizations enable the membrane to adapt to extreme weather conditions while maintaining ease of installation through self-adhesive properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Duration of action of moving object

If conventional laminate sheets are applied to freshly-poured or uncured concrete, then early waterproofing protection is provided, but the sheets lack durability under physical wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveearly protection timingVSAvoidresistance to physical wear
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The membrane system is designed to be applied preliminarily to freshly-poured or uncured concrete substrates, establishing waterproofing protection before the concrete fully cures. The self-adhesive polymer-modified bitumen layer bonds effectively to green concrete surfaces, providing early protection without compromising the substrate's curing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforced composite structure with woven or non-woven fabric layers provides the necessary strength and tear resistance to withstand physical wear and heavy foot traffic that may occur during construction activities, while maintaining flexibility for early application timing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentUS12024878B2Waterproofing membrane system and method
Publication Date: 2024.07.02 OCEANLINK USA INC
  • US12024878B2 patent drawing
  • US12024878B2 patent drawing
  • US12024878B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A waterproofing membrane system for waterproofing a concrete substrate is disclosed. The waterproofing membrane may comprise a first layer comprising a thermoplastic elastomeric waterproof material using advanced polymerization and squeeze technology. The second layer may comprise a carrier sheet that comprises a fabric. The third layer may comprise an adhesive to provide bonding of the first layer with a concrete substrate upon contact. In addition, the third layer may reduce migration of water and vapor traveling between the first layer and the concrete substrate. In some examples, the waterproofing membrane may also comprise a fourth layer to provide mechanical protection and ease of handling for the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer. In some examples, the first layer may comprise a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), the fabric may comprise polypropylene and/or polyethylene, the adhesive may comprise a C5 petroleum resin, and the fourth layer may be a protective coating comprising quartz sand (SiO2) having a reflectivity of 4.5%.